prevalent

[ prev-uh-luhnt ]

adjective

1. widespread; of wide extent or occurrence; in general use or acceptance.

   Synonyms: common, far-reaching

   Antonyms: rare, uncommon

2. having the superiority or ascendancy.
3. Archaic. effectual or efficacious.

prevalent

/ ˈprɛvələnt /

adjective

1. widespread or current
2. superior in force or power; predominant

Derived Forms

• ˈprevalently, adverb
• ˈprevalence, noun

Other Words From

• preva·lence preva·lent·ness noun
• preva·lent·ly adverb
• non·preva·lent adjective
• non·preva·lent·ly adverb
• un·preva·lent adjective
• un·preva·lent·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of prevalent¹

First recorded in 1570–80; from Latin praevalent-, stem of praevalēns “having superior force,” present participle of praevalēre “to be more able, have superior force”; prevail

Word History and Origins

Origin of prevalent¹

C16 (in the sense: powerful): from Latin praevalens very strong, from praevalēre: see prevail

Example Sentences

That might mean that exposure to Democratic organizing and advertising worked in the swing states where it was especially prevalent.

From Slate

It’s sure to come without the histrionics of the last election—though violence is prevalent in the United States, and I discount nothing at this point.

From Salon

In certain parts of the city, you can go about your day, almost blocking out the threat of airstrikes down the street and ignoring the prevalent mood of subdued fear.

From Los Angeles Times

This problem is especially prevalent in the Southwest, as epitomized by the Phoenix metro area.

From Salon

Legacy hires and unabashed nepotism are prevalent in baseball — in all professional sports, really, — but the Minasian connection has humble origins.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• common
• commonplace
• everyday
• extensive
• frequent
• new
• normal
• popular
• prevailing
• rampant
• rife
• ubiquitous
• universal